Interesting graph, 1999-2000. I could write a book about 1999. No need. New Years Day 2001...talk about it among yourselves. The graph above represents up to 2020. So it doesn't include my nephew. Growing up he certainly was aware of each and every seemingly eternal year. He turned 26 and died. 1994-2021.
Fentanyl. If I was 26 now, what are the chances I'd be found dead in an alleyway, call it a gravel drive behind someplace, a rear entrance approach road. Just there, dead in Chicago. “No signs of foul play."
My brother worked so hard to help him, and asked family to offer help which we glady did. I remember when he was born. I was a good uncle, funny, and taught him chess when he caught the bug.
One time, I set up the chess board, I played White, but with just my King and eight pawns. “Checkmate me.” He thought I was kidding. Eventually, though I tried to warn him, my King was stalemated.
How or why he became delusional and paranoic who can say. Adamantly, repeatedly, he refused any treatments, psychological or medical. I'm just not going to detail his personal demons here.
When I was 26 it was 1978. I could write a book about 1978. Still.
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He died in early May this year. Our family remains in mourning.
🥀 peace